T-Embed is an interesting product from the manufacturer LilyGo that integrates an ESP32-S3 along with a 1.9-inch TFT screen and rotary encoder in a single device.
Like many of LilyGo’s products, the T-Embed mounts an ESP32 SoC from Espressif System. Specifically, an ESP32-S3 that features a dual-core Xtensa LX7 processor at 240Mhz.
The ESP32-S3 is an old friend of the blog. You can read more about it in the article ESP32-S3 or in the section ESP8266/ESP32
As for memory, the T-Embed has 512KB SDRAM, accompanied by 8MB PSRAM and 16MB SPI Flash. Sufficient memory for almost any project we want to tackle, even those that make intensive use of graphics or GUI.
In addition, as is usual in devices that integrate ESP32, LilyGo’s T-Embed features wireless connectivity Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 5.
As for the characteristics that really distinguish the T-Embed, we first find its integrated IPS LCD display, with a size of 1.9 inches and a resolution of 320x170px.
But without a doubt, the “jewel” that crowns the T-Embed is its 24-step rotary encoder. This encoder also has 7 RGB LEDs under the surface that allow for a visual response to the user.
All of this in a compact (not small) package with dimensions of 95.4 x 36.40 mm. It is available in different colors and finishes, with an ABS or PC plastic casing. It’s a lovely device no matter how you look at it. 😍
Here are some of its features:
- SoC: ESP32-S3
- Processor: Dual-core Xtensa LX7 @240Mhz
- Memory: 512KB SDRAM, 8MB PSRAM, 16MB SPI Flash
- Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11 b/g/n
- Bluetooth BLE 5.0
- 1.9” Color TFT IPS LCD with 320 x 170px and ST7789 controller
- MicroSD card slot
- 24-step rotary encoder with 7 APA102 RGB LEDs
- Audio: 2 microphones, 8 ohm 1W speaker
- Connections: 8 GPIO pins, Grove connector (I2C)
- 2-pin connector for LiPo battery, with included protection
- USB Type-C port for programming and power supply
- Size: 95.4 x 36.40 mm
- Casing: ABS+PC
As an area for improvement, the T-Embed lacks a battery. It has a connector and protection circuit to incorporate one, but it is not included. I think it would have been very beneficial for the device to come standard with a battery.
The T-Embed is compatible with the Arduino and MicroPython environments. LilyGo is not known for documenting their projects very well, but they have a Github repository with quite a few examples, which I will leave below in the references.
The price of the T-Embed is $33, shipping not included. A bit expensive considering it does not include the battery, and when compared to other similar available options.
Obviously, its main attractions are the encoder with RGB LED, combined with the LCD screen. A combination that offers a lot of possibilities to add it to your home automation, robotics, or IoT projects.
In any case, the T-Embed is impeccable in terms of aesthetics. It is a device that invites you to try it out and could easily become one of your favorite toys.
References: